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Shamrock Shake Ice Cream

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Shamrock Shake Ice Cream is a rich, creamy frozen dessert with smooth vanilla-mint flavor and a festive pale green color. Inspired by the classic seasonal shake, it makes a refreshing treat for St. Patrick’s Day or any mint dessert craving.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
  • 3–5 drops green food coloring, optional
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, optional
  • Whipped cream, for serving
  • Maraschino cherries, for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine the whole milk and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl and whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  2. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and gently whisk until combined.
  3. Add the vanilla extract, mint extract, and salt and stir well.
  4. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring, stirring until the base reaches a pale mint-green color.
  5. Taste the mixture and carefully adjust the mint flavor if needed, adding only a small amount of additional extract at a time.
  6. Cover the ice cream base and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or overnight, until thoroughly chilled.
  7. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for 20–30 minutes.
  8. If using mini chocolate chips, add them during the final few minutes of churning.
  9. When the ice cream reaches a thick soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
  10. Cover and freeze for 3–4 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
  11. Let the ice cream stand at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping if it is very firm.
  12. Serve plain or top each portion with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a classic shake-inspired presentation.

Notes

  • Add mint extract gradually because its flavor can quickly become overpowering.
  • Peppermint extract can be substituted for mint extract, but use a smaller amount for a less intense candy-cane flavor.
  • For Mint Chocolate Chip Shamrock Ice Cream, add mini chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate during the final few minutes of churning.
  • For an Oreo variation, fold crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the freshly churned ice cream.
  • Brownie pieces can be added with chocolate chips for an extra-rich variation.
  • For a more vanilla-forward flavor, reduce the mint extract slightly and increase the vanilla extract.
  • Green food coloring is optional and can be omitted without affecting the flavor.
  • Without an ice cream maker, freeze the chilled base in a shallow container and stir vigorously every 30–45 minutes during the first few hours.
  • Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture.
  • Press parchment paper or plastic wrap directly against the surface before sealing to help reduce ice crystals.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/shamrock-shake-ice-cream/